Air-Fryer Frozen Pork Chops: Quick, Easy, Delicious!

Cooking frozen pork chops in an air fryer is not only possible but also a convenient and quick way to prepare a tasty meal. With the air fryer's ability to circulate hot air evenly, you can go from frozen to flavourful, juicy, and tender pork chops on your table in less than 20 minutes.

How to cook frozen pork chops in an air fryer

Ingredients

• Boneless pork chops
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Salt
• Smoked paprika
• Garlic powder
• Black pepper

Optional

• Brown sugar
• Red pepper flakes
• Bone-in pork chops

Method

• Preheat your air fryer to 380°F.
• Mix salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder in a small bowl.
• Brush the frozen pork chops with olive oil, then coat them with the pork rub.
• Place the frozen pork chops in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes to defrost.
• Place the air fryer basket back in and cook for about 6 minutes, then turn. Continue to air fry until done (internal temperature 145°F), another 6 to 8 minutes.
• Remove from the air fryer and allow to rest for 5 minutes.
• Salt and pepper to taste. Adjust any other seasoning if desired. Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives.

Tips

• You can use bone-in pork chops instead of boneless, but you will need to increase the cooking time.
• You can add 1 tablespoon of brown sugar to the pork rub for a slightly sweet flavor.
• You can also add red pepper flakes to the pork rub for some extra spice.
• Always use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the pork chops has reached 145°F.

What temperature to cook frozen pork chops at

Yes, you can cook frozen pork chops in an air fryer without first defrosting them. The air fryer will quickly defrost the pork chops and then continue to cook them.

To cook frozen pork chops in an air fryer, preheat your air fryer to around 380–390°F (199°C). Brush the frozen pork chops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper, or a dry rub of spices. Place the pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 5–6 minutes to defrost. Then, cook for a further 6 minutes, turn the chops, and continue to air fry until done (an internal temperature of 145°F/63°C), which should take another 6–8 minutes.

The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your pork chops and the model of your air fryer, so it is recommended to use a meat thermometer to check that the pork chops have reached a safe internal temperature.

How long to cook frozen pork chops for

Yes, you can cook frozen pork chops in an air fryer. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the pork chops and the model of your air fryer. Here is a step-by-step guide on how long to cook frozen pork chops in an air fryer:

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Firstly, preheat your air fryer to 380°F or 400°F. Preheating the air fryer is an important step as it ensures even cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Pork Chops

While the air fryer is preheating, prepare the frozen pork chops by brushing them with olive oil and seasoning them with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, or a seasoning blend of your choice. You can also use a pork dry rub for extra flavour.

Step 3: Cook the Pork Chops

Place the seasoned pork chops in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. For 1-inch thick boneless pork chops, cook for about 12 minutes at 400°F, flipping them halfway through. If using thicker or bone-in pork chops, increase the cooking time by a few minutes. Aim for an internal temperature of 140°F to 145°F.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

Once the pork chops have reached the desired internal temperature, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a juicy, tender texture.

What to serve with frozen pork chops

There are several side dishes that can complement the flavour of pork chops and enhance your meal. Here are some ideas for what to serve with frozen pork chops:

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy and rich, mashed potatoes are a perfect complement to pork chops. They can be made from scratch or using instant potato flakes for a quick and easy side dish.
• Roasted vegetables: Try tossing broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts in olive oil, seasoning them with salt, and roasting them in the oven until tender.
• Apple slaw: The sweetness of apples provides a refreshing contrast to the savoury pork.
• Quinoa salad: A hearty and nutritious alternative that enhances the meal's health benefits.
• Green vegetables: Try serving your pork chops with a side of air fryer frozen broccoli, Brussels sprouts, green beans, or asparagus.
• Salad: A fresh salad can be a great way to round out your meal and provide some extra nutrients.
• Gravy: Top your pork chops with gravy for added flavour and moisture.

How to store and reheat frozen pork chops

To store pork chops in the freezer, wrap each individual chop in aluminium foil, freezer paper, or place it in a small freezer bag (remove as much air as possible). You can also use a vacuum sealer, but this is pricier. Label the food clearly and eat within three to six months to maintain quality.

To reheat frozen pork chops in an air fryer, first, preheat the air fryer to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, place the frozen pork chops in the air fryer basket and cook until warmed through.

If you are reheating frozen pork chops in an oven, heat your oven to 350°F. Place the chops in a glass baking dish, add a tablespoon of liquid per pork chop, and cover the dish tightly with foil. Set the dish in the oven and heat for about 30 minutes.

You can also reheat frozen pork chops in a microwave, but be aware that this can dry out the meat. If you do use a microwave, use a lower power setting and cover the pork chops with a damp paper towel.

Frequently asked questions